Class I widens its horizons
The City of Shenzhen in Guangdong Province looks set to host the first Class 1 Grand Prix to be held in the Peoples Republic of China. The news was revealed by IOTA General Secretary, Marco Sala, following a recent fact-finding trip to China with F1 Powerboat Promoter, Nicolo di San Germano, where the pair reached an agreement with Mr Li Haojie of the Water Sports Event Company.
“I had a very positive meeting with Mr Li Haojie and signed a memorandum of understanding that lays the foundations of an agreement for a minimum of one and a maximum two Class 1 Grand Prix’s to be held in China beginning with Shenzhen in 2009.
“I also had the opportunity to meet with members of the local authorities in Shenzhen City, including the Major, Mr Xu Zongheng, who was extremely positive about hosting a Class 1 race in his City.” said Marco Sala, adding. “As with most new venues the logistical situation can present us with some difficult challenges, but we have found a spectacular location on the Dameisha Sea – Dapeng Bay – that will be suitable for Class 1. We will be looking to finalise all the details by 30 May for the first Chinese Grand Prix in March 2009.”
